My story of why I choose a 250cc motorcycle for my next adventure rig. Where I live and what type of adventures I enjoy is a natural fit for a dual sport motor bike.
The XT250 is an excellent and SANE choice for a super reliable fun bike when you're mature enough to subtract your ego from the equation! If you want speed, power, bragging rights etc, it's probably not the bike for you. If you want to go virtually anywhere and have fun doing it, it's one of the best investments you can make. Loved the video! The scenery was fantastic!
Absolutely I went from a Harley Dyna to an xt 250 still have the dyna but honestly the xt is more fun, don't have much experience off road yet broke my leg on my first trail ride at rampart but I'm excited to get back out there!! Excellent choice
Nice video, I went through the same process. Owned 15 bikes in my lifetime and in 2007 got a KLR also and found the same thing, too heavy and too tall. Got a 2021 xt250 last year and really happy with it. Great first bike and great last bike, I am 54 and do the same dirt road riding as you, perfect steed for that type of riding.
I've had mine for 7 years and own several other bikes but I ride the XT almost everyday. It is the greatest for running errands around town. I get more thumbs ups then any of my other bikes with the XT. I just love it. Fire roads, exploring and camping perfect.
I was an Aussie backpacker back in the '80's and lived in Aspen for a few years in '85, '86, '87, '88. Used to go to the thermal pool, Hanging lake, seadooing in Ruedi Reservoir and my favourite riverboarding on the roaring fork river. sorry to bore you with that but you made me remember the great times I had there.... Back in Australia now, 58 years old and just started riding a motorbike, managed to get a 2019 xt250 with only 1,400 k's on it.... 870 miles on it. I paid too much for it but like you said, they're really hard to find. It looks brand new. Went on my first dirt bike ride last Saturday, loved it. I can say I'm a bit addicted. Thanks for the video, it was nice to go back to the '80's listening to your story took me back to my time in Aspen, what I can remember of it' (there was a lot of partying) haha. I chose the xt250 because of the seat height, I'm 5'6", the larger tank, they're light, and they're made in Japan I think. Thanks again. Enjoy.
I just bought a brand new one, my first bike ever. I was looking at the Honda crf300's, but then I sat on one, I'm 5'10ish but lost my toes due to frostbite years ago and it was painfully tall, the Yamaha just fit way better. Where I live in Maine seems similar to what you ride, a lot of dirt roads and we have a decent ATV trail system. Thank you for confirming my decision to buy this bike.
I purchased my 2021 xt250 used as well at 1400m. The seller had to drive over 200+ miles to Alamosa to pick up the bike. I'm glad it's mine now! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the video! My use case is similar, height is similar (I'm a little shorter), and same state! I have a honda cb500x as my first bike, but the thought of wrangling 450 lbs off road is too much now that I know better, and I think the XT250 is perfect for me. Going to keep an eye out but thanks for the video!
Much respect for the weight thing. Once you ride a truly light, easy to handle bike, nothing is better. I'm thinking of a used VStrom 1000 but the height and weight are hilarious. I'd rather have a bike that doesn't want to stomp my guts in every time I ride it. I had a TS250L Suzuki two stroke enduro forty years ago. Man, those were great times. Fun bike.
I love my XT250 (had a 225 and wanted to upgrade to EFI). Wish it was better suited for highway but it's absolutely perfect for around town and semi gnarly off road.
is this bike a big no no for highways? im in Australia and thinking of getting this bike but alot of my riding will be 15 minute trips on highways, going into town cause i live on a property. highways are 100km/h so i think 60ish mph. am i going to have issues
I've had oodles of bikes, sold my Ducati Multistrada 1200S GT (regretfully), had a Chonda Hawk 250 I put 3500 miles on, traded straight across for a -91 KLR250 (Project bike I later sold) then I found the granddaddy of Dual Sports, and -83 Honda XL600R 33'' seat heigh, I'm 5'7'' with 32'' inseam. So far it's my best dual sport bike despite being 40 years old and kick start only.
What a great, great video. Your narrating and mountain views are beyond words my friend. Was going to ask in comment where your located. Then you answered. Colorado! I'm in Virginia. We have gorgeous mountains also. Just not Colorado. By chance did you ride the klx230? I bought one. I'm 6ft tall and 230lbs. It does great. I also bought a 2021 xr650l. That's more my needs though. Wished my wife would be interested in Colorado. Sometimes I feel I need a change in life. Keep making videos.
I sure enjoy my XT 250 also. I just wish I had bought it sooner when I lived in Colorado. But now I live is Southern Utah and there’s plenty of good trail riding here.
i lucked out and found mine during the pandemic at the dealership new. they had only 2. so i didnt hesitate. i spent months picking it out online. watching videos, reading reviews etc...
I kinda had the same idea that if I really wanted to do some touring I should do it with a bike on the back of a vehicle for the main highways instead of getting a klr 650 and roughing it. Especially because its a better home base to hold tools or parts or if you get hurt you don’t have to dirtbike your way home.
Great insights! I've all but taken the plunge and picked up an XT250.. I think this video may have clutched it for me. Appreciate it! Also, curious where you're riding in this video? Done a lot of mountain biking in Colorado, but haven't been that way in about a decade or so. Thanks!
Great choice, especially for 5'7" 50 yr old. I want the EFI and additional 25cc's but not enough to give up my 6-speed XT225. We've traveled a similar DP journey. I'm 5'4, 64 yr, 185 lb. I bought a '13 KLR650, but when the mechanic did the numbers, it would have had near street bike ground clearance to lower it to my satisfaction, sold it. I sat on someone's DR650 that had been lowered by OEM design and bought one. But when the mechanic tried to lower it as engineered, he called me up and said, "you bought a '95, I can't lower it, you need a '96 or newer." Selling it. Bought an F650GS DAKAR, because of the lower center of gravity, ability to lower it with OEM parts, etc. Well, it had electrical issues, inflicted by previous owner. Got it running, but it's still big and heavy off road, and is expensive to lower and maintain; and I really don't want to damage the pretty plastics in a dirt nap! Also, you can't start the engine or have it running with the side stand down! That's a tall order for a shorty like me! My latest attempt is a project DR350. The 225 is still underpowered, evidenced by your not keeping up with the KTM on an incline. So I'm hoping that will be my keeper bike. I have a TW200 that I'm hoping to convert into a TW225 with the 6 spd transmission.
Where are the places you like to go in Colorado I live i Arvada just got an xt250 last year, took it to rampart for my first trail ride, I wrecked 4 times and broke my leg, but I'm ready to get back at it. Any advice for Easier trails id appreciate it
Yo, I'm in almost the exact same boat as you height wise 5'7" / 28". I have been thinking about both this and the Honda 300 rally for a little more grunt and better highway comfort. I know you said you sat on it, but did you ride? I'm actually thinking about making a trip up to Glenwood to come see one, but it's quite a drive (Fairplay here). Hope you're enjoying this ride. I may end up with one myself - currently riding an old XT350 but jumping up and down 5k elevation on a carburated engine all the time aint the best.
I'm struggling to decide between an XT250 and a CRF300L. I'm about the same size as you and was thinking about a 1" lower seat from Seat Concepts for the CRf300, did you consider doing that, or was the CRF still going to be too tall?
I don't know what's wrong with the headlight it just looks very Old that's probably the only thing I didn't like first time I saw it, it could be better if it was an LED good looking one instead. 🙏💙
How would you rate the ride 'on-road' when it comes to bumps? Have you ever rode the KLX230,300? I hear they have better suspension but only the 230s has the ride height of the xt.
I checked out a 230 before getting my xt. I remember the seat being higher. I think they make a 230s or something with same seat height. But, has less ground clearance.
is this bike a big no no for highways? im in Australia and thinking of getting this bike but alot of my riding will be 15 minute trips on highways, going into town cause i live on a property. highways are 100km/h so i think 60ish mph. am i going to have issues?
I'm 57, and the XT is my first off-road bike. Having a blast with it. Thanks for the nice footage.
The XT250 is an excellent and SANE choice for a super reliable fun bike when you're mature enough to subtract your ego from the equation! If you want speed, power, bragging rights etc, it's probably not the bike for you. If you want to go virtually anywhere and have fun doing it, it's one of the best investments you can make. Loved the video! The scenery was fantastic!
One of the best comments on YT that I’ve read lately👍
These are little tractors too. Reliable as hell.
Absolutely I went from a Harley Dyna to an xt 250 still have the dyna but honestly the xt is more fun, don't have much experience off road yet broke my leg on my first trail ride at rampart but I'm excited to get back out there!! Excellent choice
Nice video, I went through the same process. Owned 15 bikes in my lifetime and in 2007 got a KLR also and found the same thing, too heavy and too tall. Got a 2021 xt250 last year and really happy with it. Great first bike and great last bike, I am 54 and do the same dirt road riding as you, perfect steed for that type of riding.
I've had mine for 7 years and own several other bikes but I ride the XT almost everyday. It is the greatest for running errands around town. I get more thumbs ups then any of my other bikes with the XT. I just love it. Fire roads, exploring and camping perfect.
Soo looking forward to exploring around the lake systems on the Missouri river near Helena
I was an Aussie backpacker back in the '80's and lived in Aspen for a few years in '85, '86, '87, '88. Used to go to the thermal pool, Hanging lake, seadooing in Ruedi Reservoir and my favourite riverboarding on the roaring fork river. sorry to bore you with that but you made me remember the great times I had there....
Back in Australia now, 58 years old and just started riding a motorbike, managed to get a 2019 xt250 with only 1,400 k's on it.... 870 miles on it. I paid too much for it but like you said, they're really hard to find. It looks brand new. Went on my first dirt bike ride last Saturday, loved it. I can say I'm a bit addicted. Thanks for the video, it was nice to go back to the '80's listening to your story took me back to my time in Aspen, what I can remember of it' (there was a lot of partying) haha. I chose the xt250 because of the seat height, I'm 5'6", the larger tank, they're light, and they're made in Japan I think. Thanks again. Enjoy.
I just bought a brand new one, my first bike ever. I was looking at the Honda crf300's, but then I sat on one, I'm 5'10ish but lost my toes due to frostbite years ago and it was painfully tall, the Yamaha just fit way better. Where I live in Maine seems similar to what you ride, a lot of dirt roads and we have a decent ATV trail system. Thank you for confirming my decision to buy this bike.
I purchased my 2021 xt250 used as well at 1400m. The seller had to drive over 200+ miles to Alamosa to pick up the bike. I'm glad it's mine now! Thanks for sharing.
I had the same year KLR and did the same mods. I sold it 2 years ago and bought a used 2014 XT250 and love it.
I was on the hunt for an XT 250 here in North Georgia. None available. I found a CRF300L in Chattanooga. Your right about the seat height.
I use to have a KLR as well and am looking into getting an xt250, good video 👍
Those are some beautiful landscapes man. Try not to take it for granted!
Pro tip: spray some rubber coating ($3-4 at Lowe's/Home Depot) on those mirror balls to prevent them from vibrating out of place. Nice bike!
Thanks for the video! My use case is similar, height is similar (I'm a little shorter), and same state! I have a honda cb500x as my first bike, but the thought of wrangling 450 lbs off road is too much now that I know better, and I think the XT250 is perfect for me. Going to keep an eye out but thanks for the video!
Much respect for the weight thing. Once you ride a truly light, easy to handle bike, nothing is better. I'm thinking of a used VStrom 1000 but the height and weight are hilarious. I'd rather have a bike that doesn't want to stomp my guts in every time I ride it. I had a TS250L Suzuki two stroke enduro forty years ago. Man, those were great times. Fun bike.
I love my XT250 (had a 225 and wanted to upgrade to EFI). Wish it was better suited for highway but it's absolutely perfect for around town and semi gnarly off road.
is this bike a big no no for highways? im in Australia and thinking of getting this bike but alot of my riding will be 15 minute trips on highways, going into town cause i live on a property. highways are 100km/h so i think 60ish mph. am i going to have issues
go up one tooth on the counter sprocket...helps a lot for highway travel
I've had oodles of bikes, sold my Ducati Multistrada 1200S GT (regretfully), had a Chonda Hawk 250 I put 3500 miles on, traded straight across for a -91 KLR250 (Project bike I later sold) then I found the granddaddy of Dual Sports, and -83 Honda XL600R 33'' seat heigh, I'm 5'7'' with 32'' inseam. So far it's my best dual sport bike despite being 40 years old and kick start only.
Sounds like your having a great time on the bike enjoy !
What a great, great video. Your narrating and mountain views are beyond words my friend. Was going to ask in comment where your located. Then you answered. Colorado! I'm in Virginia. We have gorgeous mountains also. Just not Colorado. By chance did you ride the klx230? I bought one. I'm 6ft tall and 230lbs. It does great. I also bought a 2021 xr650l. That's more my needs though. Wished my wife would be interested in Colorado. Sometimes I feel I need a change in life. Keep making videos.
I sure enjoy my XT 250 also. I just wish I had bought it sooner when I lived in Colorado.
But now I live is Southern Utah and there’s plenty of good trail riding here.
Thanks for sharing 👍. Am looking for one.
Bought a KLX250 and had the suspension tuned and lowered 2”. Lowered the gearing on it. Perfect trail bike.
i lucked out and found mine during the pandemic at the dealership new. they had only 2. so i didnt hesitate. i spent months picking it out online. watching videos, reading reviews etc...
I kinda had the same idea that if I really wanted to do some touring I should do it with a bike on the back of a vehicle for the main highways instead of getting a klr 650 and roughing it. Especially because its a better home base to hold tools or parts or if you get hurt you don’t have to dirtbike your way home.
Great storyteller. Good stuff
Great insights! I've all but taken the plunge and picked up an XT250.. I think this video may have clutched it for me. Appreciate it! Also, curious where you're riding in this video? Done a lot of mountain biking in Colorado, but haven't been that way in about a decade or so. Thanks!
The xt is a legend! I just got a klx 300 ds though. Yes the seat height is a lot taller, but I got it for off road purposes. It is an animal off road.
i have a 2009 and it has custom paint job and then signed by the GOAT Ricky Carmichael,love plus got a 2018 jeep
Great choice, especially for 5'7" 50 yr old. I want the EFI and additional 25cc's but not enough to give up my 6-speed XT225. We've traveled a similar DP journey. I'm 5'4, 64 yr, 185 lb. I bought a '13 KLR650, but when the mechanic did the numbers, it would have had near street bike ground clearance to lower it to my satisfaction, sold it. I sat on someone's DR650 that had been lowered by OEM design and bought one. But when the mechanic tried to lower it as engineered, he called me up and said, "you bought a '95, I can't lower it, you need a '96 or newer." Selling it. Bought an F650GS DAKAR, because of the lower center of gravity, ability to lower it with OEM parts, etc. Well, it had electrical issues, inflicted by previous owner. Got it running, but it's still big and heavy off road, and is expensive to lower and maintain; and I really don't want to damage the pretty plastics in a dirt nap! Also, you can't start the engine or have it running with the side stand down! That's a tall order for a shorty like me! My latest attempt is a project DR350. The 225 is still underpowered, evidenced by your not keeping up with the KTM on an incline. So I'm hoping that will be my keeper bike. I have a TW200 that I'm hoping to convert into a TW225 with the 6 spd transmission.
Please link the mirrors you put on thanks
What mirrors are those! ? They're awesome
I found a 2014 xt250 with 414 mi on it, for 3900 bucks here local. Is that a good price?
I'm a dual sport guy, Deym! that sexy bike
Where are the places you like to go in Colorado I live i Arvada just got an xt250 last year, took it to rampart for my first trail ride, I wrecked 4 times and broke my leg, but I'm ready to get back at it. Any advice for Easier trails id appreciate it
Happy Trails
Good little trail bike, or what is now a dual sport. Nothing wrong with these little 250s - currently using a 2010 DRZ250
Yo, I'm in almost the exact same boat as you height wise 5'7" / 28". I have been thinking about both this and the Honda 300 rally for a little more grunt and better highway comfort. I know you said you sat on it, but did you ride? I'm actually thinking about making a trip up to Glenwood to come see one, but it's quite a drive (Fairplay here). Hope you're enjoying this ride. I may end up with one myself - currently riding an old XT350 but jumping up and down 5k elevation on a carburated engine all the time aint the best.
I'm struggling to decide between an XT250 and a CRF300L. I'm about the same size as you and was thinking about a 1" lower seat from Seat Concepts for the CRf300, did you consider doing that, or was the CRF still going to be too tall?
I think the 300l is also a good choice. I just felt more comfortable on the XT
You sound like your in your 30s. Good video bikes are great 👍
Thanks, nice video, cool bike. I can’t believe you said you were 50 - you sound like you’re 17!
I was thinking the same thing!
I don't know what's wrong with the headlight it just looks very Old that's probably the only thing I didn't like first time I saw it, it could be better if it was an LED good looking one instead. 🙏💙
How would you rate the ride 'on-road' when it comes to bumps? Have you ever rode the KLX230,300? I hear they have better suspension but only the 230s has the ride height of the xt.
I checked out a 230 before getting my xt. I remember the seat being higher. I think they make a 230s or something with same seat height. But, has less ground clearance.
it's a good bike, except the seat that breaks you ass. The designer should put their ass on that seat for a few hours
To bad there not available in Europe, would love to have one as a second bike
do you guys have the yamaha serrow in europe? just curious
@@MrAddison79 not in Belgium atleast
is this bike a big no no for highways? im in Australia and thinking of getting this bike but alot of my riding will be 15 minute trips on highways, going into town cause i live on a property. highways are 100km/h so i think 60ish mph. am i going to have issues?
@Linda Hebert cheers, yah i read alot of this and came to the realisation that I'd need either a 450 or just a rode bike instead
@Linda Hebert yeah I'm looking at getting an MT07 as well
0:43 Right at this frame, like 43.9 seconds, it looks like a fake tract of homes,
from a twilight zone episode.
HA HA yeah, It does have that 'movie set' fake look to it.
50? your still a pup.
dialogue is so long & boring I quit at 5:21 ,,,never get back those wasted 5 minutes.